Become a GP Supervisor

GPSA represents GP supervisors within the Australian General Practice Training (AGPT) Program. The AGPT program is based on an apprenticeship model where the majority of GP training is conducted within GP clinics, Aboriginal Medical Services or approved hospitals.

WHAT SUPERVISORS DO?

GP supervisors work in these accredited training practices or with regional training organisations (RTOs) training GP registrars, Overseas Trained Doctors and medical students. They deliver over 90% of GP training.

Supervisors are not only GPs who teach but also people who inspire and support the next generation of GPs through their years of training. Supervisors offer one-on-one teaching, supervision, support, feedback and advice.

In a recent survey of GPSA members – 64% of respondents stated that watching the development of a GP registrar was the most satisfying aspect of being a supervisor.

 

GPSA RESOURCES AND GUIDES

From orientation checklists, to how to set goals for learners and how to plan a GP registrar’s first few days, this information will help you put the building blocks in place to good supervision. The New Supervisor Guide will help you start your role as a GP supervisor. The practical tips, information and resources are been created by GP supervisors to support you in your role.

Download the New Supervisor Guide.

Return to our “What We Do” page and scroll through the top and side menus to view our wide range of resources and education tools.

 

How to become a GP Supervisor

College Standards

The RACGP and ACRRM both have standards on supervision and training posts. Regional Training Organisations conduct accreditations on behalf of both ACRRM and RACGP. You may wish to review these standards:

The following is an excerpt from the ACRRM standards on page 4 of their most current published supervisor requirements:

2.1 Supervisor qualifications and experience

Doctors in training are required to have a supervisor throughout training. The specific qualifications and experience required of the supervisor depends on the health service and the stage of training. The following qualifications and experience apply to all supervisors providing supervision for ACRRM doctors in training.

Supervisors are required to:

  • hold current registration with the Medical Board of Australia, without any imposed restrictions or conditions.
  • (for the Core Generalist Training) be a Fellow of ACRRM or have other relevant qualifications and experience.
  • (for the Advanced Specialised Training) be a Fellow of ACRRM with expertise in the AST area, be a Fellow of a Specialist College relevant to the AST or hold other relevant qualifications and experience.
  • demonstrate compliance with their College Professional Development Program
RAGCP

RACGP VT Standards. The relevant standard is 1.2 located on Page 18:

  • Supervisor as an excellent role model
  • It is essential that all supervisors provide excellent professional and clinical role modelling. This can be demonstrated (in the case of nominated lead supervisors) by:
    • full and unrestricted registration as a specialist GP under Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA);
    • professional involvement in the broader general practice profession;
    • fellowship of the RACGP (FRACGP); and
    • participation in continuing professional development, in particular, aimed at improving performance as a general practice educator.
  • The nominated lead supervisor of the registrar, at the very minimum, will be recognised by the Medical Board of Australia (MBA) as a specialist GP.
  • Non-GPs may also supervise in extended skills posts for instance, or as part of a supervision team.
  • The nominated lead supervisor for each registrar in a general practice placement will be an experienced and credentialed specialist GP.
  • The RACGP VT Standards allow for increased flexibility in how supervision is delivered including remote and team supervision options.

Find out more about preparing for supervision in The New Supervisor Guide.

Date reviewed: 02 May 2023

Please note that while reasonable care is taken to provide accurate information at the time of creation, we frequently update content and links as needed. If you identify any inconsistencies or broken links, please let us know by email.
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GPTA Ltd t/as GP Supervision Australia

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Level 40/140 William Street Melbourne Vic 3000

Mail admin@gpsa.org.au
T: 03 9607 8590

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